North Melbourne's Majak Daw is a step closer to becoming the first Sudan-born AFL player after being upgraded to the club's senior list.

Daw, 21, has spent the past three seasons on the rookie list, the maximum allowable time, meaning the Kangaroos had to either upgrade or cut him.

North's football chief Donald McDonald said Daw has developed to the point where he is ready to make his AFL debut next year, although there are no guarantees.

"In terms of his fitness and knowledge of the game, he's ready to play senior footy now," McDonald told the club's website.

"But Majak will dictate whether he earns a spot or not."

The Kangaroos have also re-signed veteran defender Michael Firrito for next season, midfielder Sam Gibson for the next two years and have elevated rookie Aaron Mullett to their senior list.